Rocco Gay interview

Colored Gemstone Deposits and the Global Market

Where are the richest colored gemstone deposits today?
The most significant deposits for colored gemstones are found in:

Madagascar: Known for tourmalines, beryls, corundum, and apatite.
Brazil: Rich in beryls and all varieties of quartz.
Nigeria: Famous for aquamarine and rubellite.
Tanzania: Home to tanzanite, tsavorite, rhodolite, and spinels.
Mozambique, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan also boast remarkable deposits.
Despite the growing demand, gemstone mining remains a rudimentary, small-scale process, spread across the globe. Mines often deplete quickly, and new deposits are discovered, creating challenges and sudden shifts in supply. This instability contributes to the rising cost of raw materials.

Does ethical sourcing in colored gemstones hold the same importance as it does for diamonds?
Unfortunately, not yet. Unlike diamonds, there is little regulation or oversight in colored gemstone mining, often taking place in conflict zones or untraceable locations. At Petramundi, we maintain strict standards in the processing and production phases, combating child labor, local workforce exploitation, and poor working conditions.

Which companies excel in creativity and innovation with colored gemstones?
Fortunately, many stand out, from renowned brands like Cartier, Dior, Chopard, Boucheron, Piaget, and especially Bulgari, to local artisans from Valenza. These include Pasquale Bruni, Palmiero, Damiani, Crivelli, F.A., Moraglione, Luxor, and Carlo Barberis, who lead global trends in “color” and innovation. At Petramundi, we strive to contribute creatively to the industry by introducing new materials, designs, and cutting techniques.

Are there commercially viable gemstone deposits in Italy?
Italy has several deposits, such as Demantoid garnet in the Alps, Elbaite on Elba Island, and Paesina, among others. However, these are mainly of collectible value rather than commercial. The only gem materials commercially known and still marketed are Sardinian coral—harvested throughout the Mediterranean—and Sicilian amber from the Simeto River.